Image of the [object Object] plant

Photos by Lauren Keller

Dracaena Trifasciata

Asparagaceae Family

Also known as Snake Plant

Dracaena trifasciata is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to tropical West Africa from Nigeria east to the Congo. It is most commonly known as the snake plant, Saint George's sword, mother-in-law's tongue, and viper's bowstring hemp, among other names.


This plant is a

perennial

Dry

Soaked

Only water when the leaves start to droop. Good, healthy, watered leaves will be stiff with a little bit of play.

Shade

Direct

Starved

Full

It is an evergreen perennial plant forming dense strands, spreading by way of its creeping rhizome, which is sometimes above ground, sometimes underground. Its stiff leaves grow vertically from a basal rosette. Mature leaves are dark green with light gray-green cross-banding and usually range from 70–90 centimeters (2.3–3.0 ft) long and 5–6 centimetres (2.0–2.4 in) wide, though it can reach heights above 2 m (6 ft) in optimal conditions. The specific epithet trifasciata means "three bundles". The plant exchanges oxygen and carbon dioxide using the crassulacean acid metabolism process, which allows them to withstand drought. The microscopic pores on the plant's leaves, called the stomata and used to exchange gases, are opened only at night to prevent water from escaping via evaporation in the hot sun. It is a weed in some parts of northern Australia. This plant is often kept as a houseplant due to its non-demanding maintenance. They require very little water and sun, making them perfect for dark rooms and apartments. To get this plant to go into bloom outside of its natural environment is difficult. Replicating its natural environment is possible. Its flowers vary from greenish white to cream-colored — some are fragrant at night, others not at all — and have a sticky texture.